STATEMENT ON A BUDGET

Despite my couture cravings, I strongly believe women can look style-savvy at any price point, even in NYC– a city that boasts the nations and even some of the world’s most-lucrative, exclusive and unique collections. Not only, do the department stores like Barney’s and Bergdorf’s offer a greater plethora of one-of-a-kind pieces. But the more affordable brands like H&M and Zara host a much more curated and larger array of merchandise too, all at very affordable price points. While venturing across the city last weekend, I opted to get an entire ensemble on a tight budget. I was particularly being a utilitarian spender by seeking the most bang-for-my-buck, while simultaneously finding pieces with a style-savvy aesthetic.

For starters, I scored a statement coat with crisp tailoring from Zara. This army-inspired utility coat with lambskin leather sleeves is no exception, especially priced at less than $200. With multiple styling options, it’s an idyllic choice for any fall wardrobe, plus its moto-style lapel — gets giant sartorial points with menswear-inspired trends taking over the wardrobes of tastemakers this season. With a love for leather, I teamed this coat with a leather skater-style skirt from H&M, a navy blouse from the 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target collection and navy tights to balance the silhouette. Given the versatility of the utility coat combined with the predominantly neutral state of this ensemble, I pumped-up the power of this minimalist motif with bold color-block Calvin Klein booties. While these booties can definitely render any simplistic outfit– into a head-turning masterpiece, it’s important to avoid overpowering these kick’s by sporting them with bright hues from head-to-toe.

Aside from spending like a true utilitarian on an affordable budget and purchasing pieces that can be worn in countless ways, the best part of this outfit is — most of the pieces from the following photos are currently still available in store (click on the corresponding caption above for more info).